The Ranbir Kapoor-starrer Animal sparked significant controversy upon its release, drawing criticism for its perceived misogyny and the glorification of toxic masculinity. Directed by Sandeep Reddy Vanga, the film became one of the year's biggest box office successes, yet it also emerged as one of the most polarizing projects in Ranbir’s career. The criticism surrounding Animal has even prompted a response from Ranbir’s father-in-law, the veteran filmmaker Mahesh Bhatt. Bhatt, who is married to actor Alia Bhatt, shared his thoughts on the backlash, describing it as an inevitable aspect of being in the entertainment industry. ALSO READ: Vicky Kaushal In Chhava To Ranbir Kapoor In Ramayana: 5 Actors Who Are Set To Star In Bollywood's Most-Anticipated Films In The Upcoming Year
In an interview with Hindustan Times, Mahesh Bhatt referred to the criticism as an "occupational hazard" for any performer. He likened the experience to standing in the sun and getting sunburned, implying that such reactions are an unavoidable part of being in the public eye. Bhatt acknowledged that polarizing responses are inherent to the nature of entertainment, where the audience is often divided in their opinions. He elaborated on the idea that the entertainment industry is akin to a "blood sport," where both triumphs and failures are celebrated by different factions of the audience. According to Bhatt, those who choose to be performers must accept the reality of public scrutiny and criticism as part of their profession. ALSO READ: Kangana Ranaut REVEALS She Rejected Films With Akshay Kumar, Ranbir Kapoor And The Khans: You Can Be Successful On Your Own As Well
Bhatt further emphasized that the world is primarily composed of spectators, while only a few possess the courage to step into the arena as creators and performers. He asserted that being a performer requires a unique form of audacity, one that is not easily understood by those who merely watch from the sidelines. This perspective aligns with Ranbir Kapoor's own reflections on the criticism faced by Animal. In a conversation with Nikhil Kamath on YouTube, Ranbir expressed his frustration with how social media amplified the negative perceptions of the film. He noted that the film was unfairly labeled as misogynistic, which overshadowed the hard work put in by the cast and crew. Ranbir also pointed out that Vanga’s previous film, Kabir Singh, faced similar criticism, leading to a lingering perception that affected Animal as well.
However, Ranbir also saw a silver lining in the controversy. During an earlier discussion with Anubhav Singh Bassi on Netflix India’s YouTube channel, he remarked that Animal had initiated a "healthy conversation" about toxic masculinity. He suggested that cinema plays a crucial role in sparking societal discussions, and by bringing such issues to the forefront, it helps in recognizing and addressing them. Despite the polarizing reactions, Animal proved to be a commercial powerhouse, becoming the third-biggest Indian hit of 2023, after Jawan and Pathaan, and grossing over Rs 900 crore worldwide. The film’s success, coupled with the debates it sparked, underscores the complex relationship between art, criticism, and public perception in the entertainment industry.
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